Quick Overview

'Gender and Enterprise’(G&E) is a critical theme in development debates today. It can be summarized in terms of two key aspects: 1)economic empowerment of women through the entrepreneurship route; and 2) creation of an appropriate ecosystem. The state of Kerala is pioneer in both the areas. However, against the background of the fast changes that are on in the Indian economy, it is necessary to have a fresh look at the existing policies and strategies, and to have a futuristic approach in the coming days. This research initiative raises three key research issues: i) Do the women enterprises offer a sustainable income opportunity for the promoters? ii) What need to be the future strategies for promotion of sustainable women enterprises and entrepreneurship in the State? iii) What are the key constraints to women entrepreneurship development that need to be addressed by policy makers on a priority basis? The study is based on the specific experience of Kerala, a State having a significant record of public initiatives for economic empowerment of women.